If you haven’t been living under a rock for the past few years, you will likely have noticed that gin has become the drink of choice. We’d love to explore the world of gin and the evolution of it over the years. Gin is a popular choice, with gin tastings, gin distillery tours, and even gin-and-tonic tea bags.
These stats are not misleading: In 2019, 83 million bottles were sold compared to 33 million in 2013, in the UK. There are also more than 300 gin-makers across the country including Filey Distillery, compared to only 37 in 2010.
Why is there such a boom in gin? Here are five reasons gin has become so popular.
1. Accessible information
The HMRC was notorious for preventing small-scale gin distilleries from producing enough to make it difficult for new gin businesses to succeed. In 2009, Sipsmith, a trendy West London gin distillery won a two-year legal battle against the HMRC that gave distilleries legal rights to produce and sell small quantities of gin.
This allowed independent gin-makers to emerge and make their mark on the gin marketplace.
2. Changing cocktail culture
Cocktails used to be reserved for the wealthy or for summer vacation boozy nights. In recent years, cocktail menus have become the norm in bars, restaurants, and pubs across the country. Gin is a great addition to cocktail culture. As any gin lover will tell you, its versatile flavour makes it an ideal infusion for almost any cocktail. Gin is a cost-effective addition to any cocktail because it takes only one splash.
3. Versatility
Gin is versatile and exciting. It can be distilled in many different ways, giving it different tastes and strengths.
You can easily transform the flavor of Gin by using different botanical infusions. Aniseed, orange peel and lavender are all great infusions. There are many places where guests can taste gin and create their own.
4. Nutritional value
It is not calorific beer, which is why they don’t call it beer stomach for nothing! Gin is very low in calories. Gin has 72 calories on average. Gin typically contains no less than 37% alcohol abv. You can enjoy gin without having a change in your diet or lifestyle.
5. Pop culture
Gin has been a part of British culture for a long time. Although the Victorian era’s original “gin craze” was criticised and called “mother’s ruin”, gin has been consistently portrayed as a sophisticated, cool booze since the 20th Century.
James Bond is known for his vodka martinis. However, you’ll find Bond and other characters ordering gin or tonics in many of Fleming’s books. It will also be featured many times in Downton Abbey episodes, adding to its appeal.
Let’s not forget that her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II, is a big fan of gin and has been seen many times enjoying the spirit.
